NewsCovering Colorado

Actions

New Statistics Show Alarming Fentanyl Deaths: They are on the Rise

Statistics from the El Paso County Coroner's Office
El Paso County Coroner releases annual report, fentanyl continuing to pose a threat
Screenshot 2024-07-16 at 5.20.07 PM.png
Posted
and last updated

COLORADO SPRINGS — I looked into the issue of Fentanyl related deaths and despite drug-related deaths going down to 2% in 2023, Fentanyl related deaths are up to more than 5%, per the 2023 Coroner's report.

District Attorney Michael Allen is the chair of the Region 16 Opioid Council. That local council is working towards reducing Fentanyl-related deaths by focusing on prevention, treatment, and harm reduction strategies.

He says his office has been combating Fentanyl on many fronts.

"It really takes that enforcement measure throughout prosecution effort here in the DA's office and then the prevention and addiction services that we're really focusing on through region 16 and I think both of those things combined are going to be very effective at some point down the road," he said.

El Paso County Coroner Leon Kelly says Narcan blocks the effects of Fentanyl and restores breathing during an overdose.

For more information, watch the video above.

___

Astronomy fans have a new cosmic visitor to watch for over the next few weeks

Colorado has some of the best places in the country to look at the stars, and over the next two weeks, you can see the comet of the year if you know where and when to look.

Astronomy fans have a new cosmic visitor to watch for over the next few weeks

News Tips
What should KOAA5 cover? Is there a story, topic, or issue we should revisit? Have a story you believe should make the light of day? Let our newsroom know with the contact form below.

____

Watch KOAA News5 on your time, anytime with our free streaming app available for your Roku, FireTV, AppleTV and Android TV. Just search KOAA News5, download and start watching.

Sign up for our Morning E-mail Newsletter to receive the latest headlines in your inbox.